Cholesterol is an essential molecule that our body uses for many purposes such as producing hormones, building cell membranes, and aiding digestion.

However, excess cholesterol in the bloodstream can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can cause heart diseases and stroke. As a result, doctors often instruct patients to reduce their cholesterol levels, but low cholesterol can also have health implications. In this article, we will explore low cholesterol and its health implications.

What is Low Cholesterol?

Low cholesterol refers to a condition where the levels of total cholesterol in the blood drop below 125 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). This condition is also known as hypocholesterolemia.

Low levels of cholesterol can be due to various reasons such as genetics, liver disease, malnutrition, or medications such as statins that lower cholesterol levels.

The Health Implications of Low Cholesterol

Low cholesterol can have both positive and negative health implications. Some of the positive impacts of low cholesterol are as follows:.

Reduced Risk of Heart Disease

Low cholesterol levels have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease.

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that low levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol were associated with a lower risk of heart disease in people with no other risk factors. Similarly, another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that low cholesterol levels were associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in women.

Reduced Risk of Cancer

There is some evidence that low cholesterol levels may be associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer such as breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that women with low levels of cholesterol had a lower risk of breast cancer compared to women with higher levels of cholesterol. Similarly, a study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that low cholesterol levels were associated with a lower risk of lung cancer in men.

Despite the positive impacts of low cholesterol, there are also some negative health implications. Some of the negative impacts of low cholesterol are as follows:.

Increase in Mortality

Low cholesterol levels have been associated with an increased risk of mortality.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that men with low levels of cholesterol had an increased risk of mortality from cancer and other causes. Similarly, another study published in the American Heart Journal found that patients with low cholesterol levels had an increased risk of mortality from heart disease.

Increased Risk of Depression and Suicide

There is some evidence that low cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of depression and suicide.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that men with low levels of cholesterol had a higher risk of depression compared to men with normal or high levels of cholesterol. Similarly, a study published in the European Neuropsychopharmacology Journal found that low cholesterol levels were associated with an increased risk of suicide in women.

Reduced Cognitive Function

Low cholesterol levels have been associated with reduced cognitive function.

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that individuals with low levels of cholesterol had a higher risk of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease compared to those with normal or high levels of cholesterol.

Increased Risk of Infections

Low cholesterol levels have been associated with an increased risk of infections such as pneumonia and sepsis.

A study published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal found that patients with low cholesterol levels had an increased risk of infections and sepsis compared to patients with higher levels of cholesterol.

Conclusion

Low cholesterol can have both positive and negative health implications. It is essential to maintain a balance of cholesterol levels that not only reduces the risk of heart disease but also prevents other health conditions.

If you have low cholesterol levels, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.